Welcome dear friend! I'm so glad you've arrived! These days, the soul is an urban garden that needs to be nourished. This is a website dedicated to the services I offer and the way of being I promote to help you along your daily path. I am a holistic therapist and spiritual counselor, involved in alternative healing and many different aspects of holistic living. Here you will find information on the treatments and services I offer, as well as browse through the online store filled with a variety of handmade goodies such as, beautiful energy balancing jewellery, Chakra bags, incense, purposeful candles, crystals, gemstones and much more! Keep an eye on my blog on the home page for fresh insight on holistic living and healing and treading the path to how this existence should be naturally lived in harmony, as well as reflect on inspirational quotes and teachings. Enjoy your stay and please pop by anytime you feel the need. You are a beautiful being! Brightest of blessings to you from me..

There is, after these four elements, a fifth element. I won’t be going into it in detail or in the same manner as I have done with Earth, Air, Fire and Water because, the fifth element can’t be harnessed or even seen in such a way, physically. However, it really is a ‘beautiful’ thing.

The thought of the fifth element, started long before most of the larger civilizations established themselves, I am certain. Although, today it is seen as having begun with Aristotle. Yes, the very much loved and equally as much debated, old Totle. He had realized the idea among the public that the celestial realm was made of a fifth element, Ether, which is not found here in our sub lunar world.

Now, this element is commonly known as Spirit or Ether. I prefer Spirit, but still today i refer to the spheres of space up high in the air as ‘the Ethers’. This theory shocked many, as the number four is a stable, constant, familiar number of order. A compass has four cardinal points, a room has four walls, buildings are made up just about completely of right angles, producing a square or rectangle once again. Our language has included it in our every day words such as rectangle, regular, regulation, ruler, right, regiment and so on and on. So, when this so-called ‘fifth element’ came into play, it was certainly a shock to ‘the system’.

What needs to be taken into account and contemplated, is that this order of four goes no further than the physical and material realm. So, in addition to these four, there must be something more, not material, but spiritual. When you look at us lovely little humans, we have our bodily functions and our material existence, we have amazing minds and brains that make our actual movement possible. But, beyond this we, of course, have a soul and a spirit, agree? We are able to have notions, feelings and thoughts without having to be defined by them. Like I’ve said before, to understand your own body, look at the systems in nature, and to understand nature, look at the systems in your own body.

Since the Spirit element possesses no material form, just as our own spirit wouldn’t, it also possesses a vastness that takes hours, days, years, centuries and eons to really comprehend. Spirit is everywhere. It is in the trees, plants, animals, mountains, rivers and has no end and no beginning. It is in the never ending cosmos above and around our Earth. Spirit is in everything, and even more than that.

Ever think about adages like, “You’ve got spirit!” or “He is extremely spirited.”, even “She is a very spiritual person.”? Spirit is in you, throughout you, around you and also beyond your physical existence.

To many of you, the pentacle would seem like a religious symbol and, because it resembles the pentagram, some think it is even evil. This is a very big misconception which I have been trying to set right to the public for the majority of my life! The pentacle was formed by opening the fourfold cross into a fivefold pentacle to include this amazing fifth element. So, please, people, the pentacle is only a symbol of Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Spirit. It’s graceful, true, unfailing and unforgettably in everything we know to exist. That includes you and me, dear friend.

It is essential to, in all of your workings, remember the fifth element, as it is the point from which everything forms its existence. Although, keep in mind not to throw it in the same basket with the other four natural elements. It is treated and thought of differently.

Spirit has no correspondences because, everything can be opened to Spirit. Although, I have listed a few points below as a summary to best keep the mind on track and to easily be able to comprehend its vastness and beauty.

Water, oh, lovely, swishing, running Water. I have a feeling of serenity and calm “washing” over me, just at the thought of it. This element is used by each of us in our daily lives, yet taken so for granted and it’s mysteries have been easily forgotten. No one soul can argue the effect that Water has on us humans, be it within our bodies, or outside, over our skin. Air and Water together, are the duo of elemental matter that make up our needs to exist.

Our bodies are made up of between 60% and 78% of Water (depending on where you live, climate, how much you drink or don’t drink). This alone, is enough reason to really contemplate the vast qualities, urgency and mystery of this element. Water, among other elements, serves as a true binder which connects us to many of the other elements. It is an element of substance and great power over the human mind and body. Without it, we would literally seize to exist. Every living thing on this graceful planet needs Water to function. And it is no wonder that it contains part Oxygen – this already shows how interwoven Air and Water are on our planet, an ever present necessity to life.

Water is linked to the emotions, the changing tides if the ocean mimicking the ebb and flow of our feelings. It has the power to cleanse and renew, regeneration, to be transformed. Unlike Fire, which transforms, Water demands to be transformed, and as it wishes, it is always changing. It doesn’t destroy, only influences, by regenerating all that wishes to do so. Water is also the only element that can take on all three forms of gas, liquid and solid, which only confirms its ability to renew and change.

Not only this, but as it’s corresponding direction is West, the home of the setting Sun, it represents endings making way for the new. Renewal.

Water is the spring of life, as it represents the feminine aspects of nurturing, healing and emotion. Also creativity because, the womb is the creator of life, and so the womb and reproductive organs are linked to the Sacral Chakra, which is governed by this element.

Within each living thing, is the natural craving to create, to make new, to give birth to ideas and inspiration.

You can’t deny the feeling you have after a swim in the ocean, a bath, a shower or a dip in the pool. Think about how you would feel for a moment. Got it? O.K. Feelings of release, renewal, cleansing, healing and lightness wash over us when in the presence of Water. It is as motherly as a lioness over her cub, a perfect image of maternity. And she does nurture and heal – always.

Water stands for moving and for changing because, we all know if Water stands still, it will rot and attract slime, insects and remain almost ‘dead’. Water is meant to be ever moving and never stagnant, just we are meant to be. The flowing of it and the constant rearranging it goes through, as well as the natural desire to overflow, to increase, are also of Water’s unmeasurable strength.

∞

PHYSICAL APPEARENCE

Water is most commonly seen as liquid, and this is where you see most of its traits embodied – in the effects of its movements alone. As it is the most common liquid matter around on Earth, many think of it as representing the mother of all liquid matters and substances. It is the primal liquid, which has stayed with us loyally, despite us taking it for granted.

Even in different shapes and forms of gas, liquid and solid, its transformation always retains its basic elemental properties and its internal structure. In its natural state, Water can be found salty in seas, dams and oceans, usually undrinkable for most humans. Otherwise, fresh, derived from most mountains, springs and wells – the type of water each living thing requires. Fresh water is found in wells or in rivers.

Water is an unpredictable element, because it is so vast. It can rage and cause death and destruction upon those living near open seas and Waters but, simultaneously, it also gives life and continues supporting it.
Water is in physical form one of the things you need to survive. It’s something that you quickly realize you have had too much of or when you are lacking it completely (headaches, dry skin, the list never ends!).

Water, in small proportions, actually, even in open waters, works in harmony with each of the other elements in a most mysterious way. When the Sun is out, Water can disappear in no time on a hot day in front of your eyes. It evaporates into vapour or gas which is carried by the wind, to the clouds, where it then slowly takes on liquid form once more. So that when the Earth gets to hot, or Fire becomes too dominant and destructive, the clouds release the Water which falls down back onto Earth and into the rivers and seas, to balance out the climate again. This explanation of balancing Fire and Water will be brought up in a moment. The heat of Fire seems to represent the natural elemental enemy of Water, as it is forever balancing it out. Water can extinguish Fire and Fire is able make Water evaporate.

Water is an element with two faces, just as we are – when it comes to our emotions, I mean! It can wreck havoc or support life, cleanse and nurture. Doesn’t that sound familar to the human traits and emotions, friend? Very much so, I think.

There are many ways in which Water can be seen, as it has various froms and states of matter but, the physical items, places and things that correspond with it are just about endless. Here are a few:

v Seas

v Oceans

v Lakes

v Dams

v Rivers

v Streams

v Running/moving Water (Showers, baths, pools, Jacuzzis)

v Still standing Water (if replaced duly)

v Waterfalls

v Water features

v Fish

v Dolphins

v Whales

v Seaweed

v Cups

v Bowls

v Barrels

v Chalices

v Water corresponding stones and crystals, such as Aquamarine and Turquoise.

Colours that correspond with Water are:

v Blue

v Indigo

v Green

v Aqua

v Silver

v Purple

Now that the physical matter of the element of Water has been listed and is now fully acknowledged, we can go on to look at how the matter of Water corresponds with our bodies mentally, emotionally and physically.

As we now know, Water corresponds with our Sacral Chakra (beneath your Navel, just above your pubic bone), it effects the emotions, feelings and the amazing ability to create and give birth (don’t worry all you men, I mean metaphorically and not only physically!)

Many a cultures see Water as the source of all. Water, to all humans, means surviving or not surviving, life or death. Water is constantly influenced by our beautiful, motherly moon. The tides of the ocean depend on the moon phases and its workings, as all fishermen, devoted sailors, boatmen, divers and surfers know. It is almost a religous factor to them. So it should be for us all. Knowing this too, it is no coincidence that our moods change, like the tides of the seas, when the Moon is in her certain phases. Funny how the words ‘Moon” and ‘mood’ are rather similar – coincidence? Our bodies contain so much Water, how could we not be influenced? Even a woman’s menstrual cycle is effected by the Moon.

The Moon in herself, is a very motherly figure. The Sun is her Yang and she, the Yin. Maculine and Feminine. The element of Water, no doubt has a close connection with the Moon, but more about the Moon in a later part of the Elements chapter.

Your Sacral Chakra is the ‘bowl’ which holds all your emotions and experiences. It also has the power to release these, through creativity and birth of new ideas. Just as Water has the power to destroy or reguvinate and make new. Where do you think adages like, “A wave of relieve just crashed over me.” or “A feeling of peace washed over me immediately.” ? It’s no coincidence that this is the effect that the energies of Water has over humankind and all of nature. It relieves, releases, cleanses, heals and nurtures.

As your Sacral Chakra also governs your capacity to except the FLOW of life and in physical terms, your flexibility, it gives you the potential to go along with the daily events of life and steer away from being rigid and stubborn, not wanting to go with the flow and trying to go against the grain. This is one of the most intense qualities of Water (among hundreds!). When you feel you need to live a little, go with flow and enjoy what life is doing, instead of being a control freak and trying to maintain your own ‘idea’ of flow, go for a dip in the ocean, just float on the surface and feel your body moving with the flow of the tides, not fighting but enjoying the movements and letting go, giving into the natural flow of life.

Water is there to do just this. It is there to calm, release and balance your emotions, as well as to remind you that you have them if you are one of those souls who like to tuck them in your sleeve.

As the Chakra linked to the Sacral, is the Throat Chakra, because of it’s functions of release, creativity, communicatin and expression, it is also linked to the element of Water. Water represents communication and expression. You can see this as communication between any two people or more, it is a constant flow of expression an release.

Water embodies traits and qualities like freedom and independence. This is no wonder, as when you look at Water, it is free, independant and flows only as it wishes. Water is healing in the aspects it possess to completely create, due to the destruction and ending of prior things.

We use Water to shower and clean ourselves, and this is no coincidence…

SECRET: Water literally washes all other energies which we accumilate during the day from outside influences, besides our own, away. It leaves you and washes down the drain at your feet. Your energies, when releived of the burden of other accumilated vibrations, will contract within your body until a few moments after. Your own energies, then once again ingulf your body. This is your aura. Why do think you feel exhausted and drained after a shower or bath, then suddenly have loads of energy a few minutes later? Water really does cleanse us of more than physical dirt, but also energetic, vibrational dirt that we accumilate. Authorities and policemen use Water guns and sprays to calm down protesting crowds or conflicts in the streets, and guess what? It works every time. So, next time you have a bath or shower, keep this in mind. See those nasty energies you’ve accumilated from your boss or people in traffic just wash away, leaving your enegies, as well as your body literally clean and cleansed.

Thus, this stunning element of Water represents cleanliness and purity, innocence and virginity. Water is a force which changes everything around it (physically, spiritually and emotinally). Water itself is constantly changing, but always remains the same, a beautiful embodiment of the constant pulse of life.

There are many different qualities of Water and many reasons to harness its energies. We all need the element of Water close to us in daily life, as everything it stands for is a necessity to our well being on every level. I would suggest intensifying its energies and harnessing them for healing, especially. Otherwise, you should invite Water into your life when:

v you need to calm an agitated or chaotic state in someone or some place

v you need to communicate well and clearly

v you need a feeling of peace, detachment and relaxation

v you feel you need to quieten your mental activity

v you feel you need to heal mental, emotional and physical pain

v you need any kind of healing (yourself and others), also to speed up the natural healing process of the body

v you need to release something(mentally/emotionally/physically)

v you need solitude

v you feel you need to become accustomed to the natural flow of things and become more in tune with it (including changing your perception)

v there is a lack of flow and movement in your life

v you feel you need relief

v you need the emotional and mental strength to see an end to something in your life

v you feel you need to cleanse yourself on any level

v you need creative inspiration

Here are a few fun and simple ways in which to invite the ever nurturing element of Water into your life and learn to keep it!:

BALANCE AND ENERGIZE YOUR SACRAL CHAKRA

This exercise (the Baddah konasana) can be done pretty much anywhere you feel closest to the element of Water. As we aren’t all so lucky to live near a sea, dam or river. If you have a Water feature in your home, a spot somewhere near it would be ideal. Although, not to worry. You can do this exercise after a shower or bath, with your hair still being a bit wet, which would give you just that little bit of an extra feeling of closeness to this element. If none of the above are relevant to you or tickle your fancy, personally, it’s perfectly fine as well. The only must is that it is a spot facing to the west – the corresponding direction of Water. Perfectly doable, I’d say.

First and foremost, friend, go to your kitchen and pour yourself a glass of fresh Water. Now, glug it down and imagine your entire body being engulfed in its cleansing properties and its flowing, calming nature. Done? Great.

When you have found that appropriate spot, stand facing west and close your eyes. Still your mind and breathe slowly and calmly. On your in breath, imagine breathing in the calmness of a deep blue, cleansing and flowing ocean and feel it flow down through your mind and body. On your out breath, see grey smoke coming out of you and leaving you. This grey smoke contains all the stresses and worries you have within you. It contains negative thoughts and unnecessary mental activity that is harmful. Imagine that grey smoke leaving you and your body as you breathe out. See it rise up into the atmosphere, far away from you, and disappear completely where it can no longer harm. Do this breathing a few times over, until you feel completely relaxed, content and still.

Slowly lower yourself to sit on the floor, bending your knees outward. Keeping your back comfortably up straight, let your knees fall outwards, allowing the soles of your feet meet. Do not try and press your knees to the ground, that isn’t the point of this exercise. Remember, all exercises and stretches should be totally comfortable to allow the free flow of energy. Now, move your feet as inward and close to you as is comfortable for you. Place both your hands over your feet or toes that have met in front of you. Concentrate on your breathing – being slow, comfortable and peaceful. Empty your mind and only let thoughts of the qualities of Water enter. Qualities like release, flow, renewal, purification, healing and its cleansing nature. Imagine a stream of that amazing Water running through your body freely, as your energy should, washing over and through your whole being – mind and body. Visualize all the Water exiting at the point of your Sacral Chakra (just above your pubic bone, beneath your navel), allowing all your stresses and emotional tension to be released and your body and mind cleansed by the constant flow of the stream. Hold this pose as long as comfortable and as long as you feel you need to – and trust me, you’ll know! – then release.

Remember to always thank the Water and ground yourself with an exercise on page 126 once more.

The benefits of doing this exercise every day are endless, and you should find yourself more receptive, creative and you’ll establish a certain flow in all your activities.

GET YOUR FLOW ON!

Now that you’ve got that energy in your mind and body blissfully flowing, it’s about time to get that creativity flowing. And what better outlet than decoration in the name of Water itself?

As you’ve seen in the list on page 193, there are hundreds of items and physical correspondences of Water, which you can use to incorporate the energy of this element into your life and home. It is completely up to your own personal preference and taste. Most common is a bowl of Water or any container of Water – preferably transparent so that your naked eye is able to actually see the Water when passing by. Other lovely items are pictures of dolphins, whales and fish. Then, of course, there are Water features. I have always had a magnetic fondness for Water features and they are a lovely investment, if you are so financially inclined (if not, you should a bit more Earth in your life and ask for abundance, growth and prosperity!). Shells are also a lovely decoration for anywhere in the home. Most window sills would greatly appreciate a shell or two to perk them up!

Once you’ve found and gathered your ‘Water items’ , find a place in your home facing the west and arrange them in your newly created ‘Water space’. Play with the items and think of all the wonderful qualities of Water – creativity, regeneration, self exploration, movement, healing, feeling, releasing emotions, flexibility, cleansing, receptivity, subconscious, inspiration. Then see and feel these traits within each item radiating these energies constantly. Whatever your chosen items, find little places within your home to put them. You can place them all over – wherever you feel you will notice and see them in the places you think suit best for your daily routines.

Throw blue cloths over the couches or a table, change those brown drapes to a beautiful calming blue. You’ll feel the effects in no time!

Whenever you feel the need for the energies of Water in your life, spend some time in your ‘Water space’ and feel the energy running through your mind, body and home. Life is a constant flow, after all, and only when we release, create and heal, can we float gracefully with the natural flow of things and live a little!

Fire has proved to be one of the more intense elements of them all. Not that the other natural elements aren’t deeply intense in the their own qualities, but the first common human thought of FIRE, indeed seems to stir something very primal within us. The qualities of Fire, alone – be it the esoteric or the physical – are definitely not to be bargained with or tested and are so vast and powerful on their own. Fire has the power to transform. It physically transforms solids into liquids, to gas, and still has the power to turn it back again. In layman’s terms and looking at the bigger picture, it holds the power to transform the material (or esoteric) state of any substance into a different form or state. Within our bodies, the element of Fire corresponds with our own fiery Solar Plexus, and if you can recall from chapter 1: Chakras, it governs (among other things) our hard working digestive system. This lovely system of ours, governed by our “inner fire energy” breaks down our foods and also converts food into fat (stored energy) and muscle. Fire transforms food into energy, just as it transforms many other states of matter (and non matter).

Fire has always had a two-fold effect on us humans. And rightfully so, it always will. Physically, it can provide you with heat, it can serve as a source to cook your food upon, to boil water, and always brings a sense of warmth and closeness. But, just as our Solar Plexus governs our personal power and confidence, when it is out of whack, Fire is also an impulsive and dangerous element, which can for one moment be a silent, warm flame and then suddenly, without warning, burst. It can wreck havoc and destroy, invoking feelings of fear and terror. Fire has the power to bestow upon one wings of bravery and courage, compassion and love. Fire embodies intense power and is absolutely not one bit subtle. For its vast uses and qualities of both positivity and negativity, I always see it as the force burning within each of us, giving us a willpower of steel to go for our goals and bestowing upon us the confidence and passion to do it with. Not to mention the power to transform our cowardliness into strength, our fears into confidence and our will into material form. Every one of us has this flame or fire within us, and has the power to use it at our own digression. Why do you think adages like, “I’m burning with desire!” or “She’s shining with confidence!” exist? Exactly. The beauty of it is, if we need more “Fire” energy qualities within us, there is so much surrounding us in the natural elements, held within the Sun and sky, of which is never ending and far more than enough to go around.

∞

PHYSICAL APPEARENCE

Fire in its physical form, can be seen in a single flame, a fire, or most commonly in the blazing Sun that graces our beautiful planet each day for the bigger half of 24 hours (in most countries, that is). Fire is mostly seen as a red, yellow, gold or orange force and an instant feeling of heat is felt at the mere thought of it. It posseses the quality with a tendency to expand and enkindle things nearby (just as spiritually as it does physically). This goes for positive and negative “Fire”. As soon as it is “lit”, it will reach out to anything near by, be it a “good” fire of confidence and warmth or a “bad” fire of anger, without control.

Fire is a thing without borders, once released it will go on destroying until IT is destroyed. If you want to utilize it, you have to keep a close watch on it. If you have Fire for a campfire or for warmth, you have to put stones around it so it won’t become too big and begin to burn you. Fire is an over eager element and usually overdoes its job if you don’t give it a set and controlled limit.

Even at the thought of our fiery Sun, it provides us with heat and gives all plant life and human life the neccesities of vitamin D and many other important minerals needed to sustain life. It can dry our clothes and make our day that much more enjoyable when it’s out. Although, similarly, when too much time is spent under our amazing burning star of a Sun in the sky, we get sun burnt and dehydrated, or to a higher degree, heat stroke.

Fire has proven itself to be an element of extremes. This not only gives it the ability to be greatlly respected and cherished, but also embodies all it’s qualities and energies in every aspect of its physical appearence.

There are hundreds of items that symbolize and correspond with the element of Fire’s intense and unwavering energies, and I will be giving you a few pointers on how to utilize them to invite these qualities into your life in just a moment. These are as follows:

(Above – in other words – the colours of the Sun’s light and its influence on the sky and our Earth)

Now that the physical matter of the element of Fire has been listed and is now fully acknowledged, we can go on to look at how this matter corresponds with our bodies mentally, emotionally and physically.

As we have seen, Fire is recognized and known for its intense nature and the ability to be greatly positive, as well as being misused or overused to turn devastatingly negative. Your Solar Plexus Chakra (above your navel, below your ribcage) is governed by the element of Fire and will always have this link to one another. Now, this couldn’t be more fitting when looking at all the bodily functions and organs governed by this Chakra. Your Solar Plexus corresponds with your digestive, immune and nervous systems. Like we’ve already seen, as one of the qualities of Fire is to transform, so your digestive system does in transforming your food into energy and waste. It’s no wonder that if there is one certain ailment in this system, it’s called heartBURN – and with good reason!

Your Solar Plexus also governs traits of yours such as, personal power, will, confidence, passion and self worth. It is the seat of where your fear is replaced by courage and your feelings of inferiority are replaced with self confidence. Just as with your own goals and your will power to obtain them, when Fire has “caught” something, it “fights” for it until it has consumed it, burned it down, or destroyed it. It only extinguishes by itself, when it sees fit, or has to be extinguished by outside influesnces stepping in. Fire doesn’t know the words ‘fear’ or ‘doubt’, just as you shouldn’t when your Solar Plexus is in good balance.

Similarly, when it is overused or out of balance, it knows neither mercy nor shame. If it wants something, it will consume everything in and on its path to eventually get it. That is the danger of overusing the energy of Fire and its qualities in your life.

The flip side of the coin is just the same. Without enough influence of the energies of the element of Fire, you will be left wanting. You may allow yourself to give in to fear, doubt and anxiety rather easily, and possess traits of being meek and mild. Fire is your strength, your passion, your determination, your ability to transform and your right to be fully content. (More about contentment and Fire in a minute). Physically, if you don’t spiritualy have enough of the influence of Fire in your life, you are going to have a tough time with that digestive system (to name only one ailment of many). So, I hope my rammblings on Fire hasn’t scared you off too much (on the contrary, I hope!), because then you may have to put a few more books and magazines in your toilet, if you don’t allow the energies of this element into your body, mind and home. This is just a friendly warning!

Now, to get back to contentment, as I promised. Think about the Sun for a second or 5. The feelings one would get are those of joy happiness, confidence, shining with smiles and true contentment. This is how your Sun should be and this is the Sun you should have within your own Solar Plexus. Shine with the fire of the Sun, and you will experience true joy and contentment. Not to mention, drive and ambition!

To keep an eye and make sure “Fire” is safe and controlled, you know it has been overused when traits such as possessiveness, anger, hatred, over confidence and selfishness start to surface. I cannot stress enough, just as Fire can warm, transform, renew and shine, so it can also destroy and consume. With great power, comes great responsibility, friend. The key is to keep it under control and in your care constantly.

Fire represents passion, love, compassion and desire, which are all very intense emotions alone. This makes their link with Fire unwaveringly true. Adages like, “I’m trying to rekindle the flame.” or “The sparks are always there!” weren’t created and thought up out of nowhere, it is clearly the influence Fire has over us.

A lovely example I like making use of to illustrate the indestructible energies and qualities of Fire, is the symbolic animal of Fire -the Phoenix, sometimes referred to as the “Bird of Flames”. The Phoenix is a legendary immortal creature, said to be an incarnation of many different Gods (depending on belief systems), which rises again and again from its own ashes, whose eternal flame can never be extinguishged. I use this example because, just as the Fire of the human soul cannot be extinguished, niether can the Fire of love, of passion, of ambition and will power within each of us.

Fire stands for unbridled emotions, hatred and anger, but also love and contentment. Fire stands for change and renewal. It is no wonder that it is written in many scriptures and prophecies that the Earth will be consumed in Fire on Armageddon. It will no doubt be done in order to renew and transform the Earth, cleansing it of all impurities.

Fire is the burning in your soul, moving you to fight for whatever you may believe in. Fire represents your will, your drive and your passion and never commitment only, but also its realization and your ability to do so.

In all its intensity, Fire is love and Fire is life. Fire is part of you and with the knowledge of how to invite this element into your body and home, you hold its power in your hands and have the ability to once more reunite yourself and your surroundings with this unfailing force of Fire.

One should always incorporate the element of Fire into your home and not only harness its magnetic energies when you feel it’s needed, but also in daily routine to promote drive, passion and love into it. Although, specifically, put Fire in your life when:

v you feel there is an inability to make your dreams a reality

v you have feelings of fear, anxiety or insecurity leading to nervous, digestive and immune disorders

v you need to let go of the past and move forward with motivation and action

v you have feelings of indecision and confusion

v you have poor memory or trouble with focus and concentration

v you want to create a sensual or romantic and passionate atmosphere

v you feel you need motivation and drive

v you feel you need confidence and increased, higher feelings of self worth

v you need determination and energy for a task of any kind

v you feel you need physical strength or mental strength (or both – these two go very much hand in hand! And having one without the other doesn’t do anyone much good.)

Here are a few fun and simple ways in which to invite the magnetic element of Fire into your life and (hopefully) keep it!:

BALANCE AND ENERGIZE YOUR SOLAR PLEXUS CHAKRA

Alright. This exercise, you’ll notice, is very similar to the example I gave you in the Channelling chapter on page 125. The only difference here, is your OWN reason behind it and what you are wanting to harness and bring into your life. That, and this exercise uses your hands. As well as your breathing and your mind’s eye, naturally.

Since we are dealing with inviting the element of Fire into your life and body, you should best find a candle (preferably orange, yellow or red, but it’s no biggie if it’s purple or even rainbow coloured – you just need that flame!) If you don’t own a candle, or can’t seem to find one, it’s no problem. That was only the first option. The second – and actually my own preferred method – is to stand in the Sun. In the sunlight, outside (but, of course!). Find a place where you feel closest to that Fire of the Sun. To the qualities of its energy and those of the qualities you want to harness. You will find, more often than not, it is outside in the Sun. I must also add, that it is obviously best to do this exercise in the day, because of this particular reason. And remember, even if it’s cloudy or overcast, the Sun is surely there, as strong as ever.

If the ground is too hard, please get yourself a comfy mat or towel (also for keeping those creepy crawlies at a safe distance). Otherwise, grassy foundations and lawns are perfect. Once you have found that spot, stand up straight, relaxed and close your eyes. Breathe in and out slowly, calmly and still your mind. On your in breath, imagine breathing in the purest cleanest Air, shining with a fantastic white or yellow light, and on your out breath, imagine all your stresses, thoughts and worries leaving you through your out breath. Picture it as a big black cloud floating out of your body and away from you, up into the atmosphere, to where it can no longer harm. Do this for as long as you feel the need to and until you feel completely still and centred.

Now, kneel down on the ground with only one knee. You should have one on the ground, with that foot behind you and the other leg in front of you with your foot firmly on the ground on front of you (as if a man about to be knighted would kneel). Keep your back straight and your arms relaxed. Continue your slow breathing.

Bring your arms stretched above your head as high as you can, your hands meeting each other about 30-40cm above your head in a seemingly prayer-like position – palms against one another and pointing upwards. I like to aim my hands directly at the Sun above me, so it’s up to if you’d like to position yourself in this manner before you commence to kneeling.

Keeping your arms up, focus on your breathing once more. Slowly and calmly in and out. Close your eyes. Let the feelings and images of the qualities of the Sun and the qualities of Fire you are harnessing float through your mind. Contentment. Confidence. Personal power. Passion. Courage. Joy.

On your in breath, imagine a brilliant yellow beam of light coming from the Sun, into your pointed hands, carrying all those qualities, running down your arms. Now, breath out slowly, as if to breath this light into your body. Bring your hands down slowly, holding the point and place your hands at your Solar Plexus Chakra. By this channelling, the brilliant yellow light has now travelled from the Sun, into your hands, down your arms and you have placed it within your own Solar Plexus – within your own body and mind.

This should be done three times over, raising your hands again and repeating the visualization and breathing. You, however, may do it as much as you feel is needed.

After you feel this is completed, and you feel the energies and qualities of the Fire of the Sun settling in, it’s time to change over to the other knee and repeat it through on that side. Changing nothing but your knees.

After both sides are done to your satisfaction, you may want to stand up straight and stay in the Sun for another few seconds with your eyes closed, to soak up all the energies you have harnessed and let yourself settle with the feelings it brings. Always thank the Sun and remember to ground yourself afterward, of course, the way I explained on page 126.

NOTE: If you have chosen to skip on the Sun and the outside environment, and prefer to do it inside with a candle, the only thing that changes is the direction of your hands. Point them towards he candle instead, harnessing the qualities of Fire. Thank the Fire after you are done, and remember to keep your candle in a fire safe container. Yes, we love Fire, but we don’t want the house covered in flames!

FIRE IT UP!

I must say, I’m sure it’s depends on personal colour preferences but friend, in my opinion, Fire is my favourite element to “decorate” my home for (and it looks beautiful in the night time!). So, now comes the fun stuff! Get together all your candles, Fire corresponding crystals and stones (see page 175) and don’t forget to dig up your cupboards for nice coloured cloths that are red, orange or yellow.

Since the corresponding direction of Fire is South, firstly find an area in the South side of your home where you can place your candle (or three!) and lay your cloth or your stones under or next to it.

Once this is done, stand in front of your “Fire space” and spend some time with the items. Play with the stones and your cloth. Stare into the burning flames of the candle(s). Think about the traits and qualities of the element of Fire – transformation, confidence, passion, determination, will power, courage, love, compassion, personal power and contentment. Then see and feel these traits within each item radiating these energies constantly. Whatever your chosen items, find little places within your home to put them. You can place them all over – wherever you feel you will notice and see them in the places you think suit best for your daily routines.

Throw red or orange or yellow cloths over your couches, chairs, tables, wherever! It’s all there to be with you and within you. And whenever you feel you need to harness these energies more intensely, go to your “Fire space” and repeat the exercise with the candle (or the Sun).

v Represents clear perception and intelligence. Associated with the first breath of life, speech, communication and the Heart.

v Chakra – Heart

Air is matter in the form of gas, which is incredibly dynamic and is able to move in between, to and from and around various pressures swiftly. Within the body, air is the basis for all energy transfer reactions. It is a key to ensure the existence of our own human life. Similarly, it is a key element to the other three elements for their existence. For example, without it, fire would not be able to burn.

Air is existence without form, and although it is not visible to us in its natural state, its role within the universe is that of grave importance, and without it, existence is not possible in any way or form. It can be felt, though. The wind is the motion of air and this is how we ‘feel’ the Air element – when it is physically in motion. The air (oxygen) that we know on planet Earth, has come into existence through our planet’s amazing biological systems. The process of photosynthesis, where plants take in carbon dioxide and water, creates oxygen as a by-product. This also embodies the very nature of the role of air in our daily existence.

It is in a constant give-take situation, forever recycling itself and reprogramming itself by flowing in and out, up and down, around and changing its stripes from oxygen to carbon dioxide, and back to oxygen again. Air does this to best serve the role it needs to play in a certain situation. For example, the role air plays is the exact opposite with fire as it is with plants. Plants take in the carbon dioxide and disperse air, and fire takes air in, in order to burn.

The Air element is linked to the Heart chakra, because it is the key to our gaseous exchange and our constant in and out, “Come closer… go away” relationship with the world and ourselves. This will become more and more apparent to you the further you go on to study this amazing element. Unpredictable, invisible, undependable, playful, destructive, soothing, inspiring, life taking and life giving: These qualities are what make up the Air element. To many, it symbolizes all that we cannot see, but we know to exist, such as, our souls or spirits, our minds, thoughts and, of course, our hearts.

In many belief systems, religions, philosophical teachings and spiritual practices, the individual would face East, because of the relation it has to Air and all its qualities of purity, change and intelligence. Purity of the spirit and the heart, clear perception and thought within the mind, focus of pure intent and ‘matters of the heart’ all fall under the traits which are governed by the unwavering element of Air. Just as our hearts and minds, Air is not always calm and collected – quite on the contrary.

Air is unpredictable and forever changing. In instances like these, it can easily be seen in a raging hurricane or tornado, but it could also be seen in a refreshing, soothing breeze. Ring any bells? It sounds to me like the perfect summary of our hearts and minds, don’t you think? In all its complex simplicity, the element of Air is an element we should hold very dear, as it is a mirror reflection of our inner selves. As we now go on to see how to invite this element into your life, it becomes ever clear that the element of Air, is truly the breath of life.

∞

PHYSICAL APPEARENCE

Air can not be seen or drawn, but it can be touched and felt, much like emotions and energies. The only way Air is ‘visible’ to us, is in the way we see the wind blowing things around the sky and across the land. Air cannot be captured, and it is constantly moving. It cannot be tamed or changed by us, only by itself and by biological sysytems that have been in place for thousands of years. However, it serves our existence so incredibly loyally and graces us with its presence and all its qualities all day, every day.

What we can see is the ripples on the water when a breeze blows over a lake. We see the leaves swishing around everywhere, dancing in circles when its winds are carried through the tree. We see dirt and dust blowing across the roads. We feel it moving our clothes and playing around with our hair. Similarly, the wind can be calm and almost non existent, but Air is always there. This is apparent, as we breathe Air in and out, even if it does not move as Wind. Air surrounds us constantly, as a gravely important, invisible force in our lives.

To elaborate further and put this quality of Air in a nutshell, here is a wonderful quote from a Erpheronian philosopher, named Myrkorel Whitebeard, when speaking about the physical appearence of the Air element:

“Physical Air is mostly represented as Wind, or Air in motion. Wind cannot be seen, although it can be felt. Wind cannot be held, captured, or tamed. The invisible mover of things we can clearly see, the Wind influences the weather, the seasons, and therefore in a sense the essence of time itself. Wind can be destructive as easily as it can be soothing. Wind can as soon be a howling tornado as it can be a gentle breeze that plays among the flowers. Because we can see Wind in the things it moves, be it leaves or hair, we often associate the Element of Air with the Wind. Yet air also has the capability of being still. Still Air is the invisible provider of life to our lungs. It should be noted that motionless Air can be the provider of gentle breath to our lungs but it can also stifle just as easy. Air can be oppressive, hot, and stifling just as easily as it can be cool and calming. In this way, Air is influenced by Fire and Water for by Fire or Water can hair be heated or cooled.”

Remember too, that although we cannot physically term or ‘see’ the appearence of Air, it is hugely powerful and can be seen in and amongst the other elements. Air has the ability to, if given time, wear away the earth, in the form of a strong and constant wind – even to the tallest, oldest of mountains. Wind can effect fire and spread it out to become bigger, or whisp over it, so that it blows the fire out completely. This is the appearence of the element of Air to us.

Items that represent Air are many. Here is a list of some that I will be telling you all about later, in order to utilize them to invite this element into your life. They are as follows:

v Feathers

v Birds

v Kites

v Airplanes

v Wind chimes

v Dream catchers

v Paper jet planes

v Green crystals and stones

v Dead leaves (Remember, only dead leaves and ones that are off of a tree already. Don’t go and deface a tree for your own benefit. These represent the blowing wind, of course.)

Colour correspondences linked to the element of Air and its energies are:

v Yellow and purple (in conjunction with one another)

v Grey

v White

v Yellow

v Bright Emerald Green (Heart Chakra)

Now that the physical matter of the element of Air has been listed and is now fully acknowledged, we can go on to look at how this matter corresponds with our bodies mentally, emotionally and physically.

As Air is acknowledged by its many different movements. Being very dynamic and mobile, in its connection to the Heart Chakra, it embodies our entire relationship with the world, ourselves and other people. I say this so confidently because, no matter what we may believe to be true about any kind of relationship, a key constant factor is the contracting (pulling closer) and expanding (pushing away/making space) that is inevitably a part of each and every relationship. Actual Air, itself, is tirelessly moving between higher and lower pressures, seeking a balance – or equilibrium, if you will – where it is able to be still and flow freely. The same goes for our relationships, as we are most definitely always seeking a balance between giving and receiving, coming and going and what we allow in or outside of ourselves. In this sense, Air embodies the pursuit of balance and the process which needs to take place in order to acquire it.

Just as the conditions of the blowing wind effects the seas and oceans, whether it is a still breeze making the waters calm and still with tranquil, small waves, or whether it is in the form of a gale force wind, wrecking havoc among the waves and tides, Air is and always will be one of the most influential factors among all elements. And just as other elements effect us too, this effect isn’t limited to just oceans and seas, it effects the watery side of our bodies just as much. The ‘watery’ side I’m referring to here, are the high and low tides of our emotions and our ability to move and flow freely, as Water does.

If there is turbulence in the Heart Chakra, meaning Air that is frantically seeking balance, it will act as a gale force wind and disturb the ebb and flow of your emotions, not to mention how we feel emotionally towards ourselves, others and the world. Similarly, if a balance has been found within the body of the individual between giving, receiving, letting in and letting out, the ‘waters’ will be tranquil and the emotions will be calm.

That said, here is a SECRET: Just look at the outside world and its natural workings and… hey presto!… you can slowly compare the workings to what may be happening inside your own self and your own body.

Air, with its corresponding direction being East, is additionally then linked to the rising of Sun. The time of sunrise is the fresh, dewy beginning of a new day, it symbolises new beginnings and fresh starts. This goes hand in hand with the element of Air, as the first breath of air, gives new life to a human being.

Having the Air element in your life invokes new beginnings and the ability to be dynamic in all sorts of weather and situations (which every one of us needs nowadays!). It instils a feeling of balance and acceptance and gives us the tools we need in order to nurse our many different relationships to a healthy balance. There are various ways to invite this lovely element into your life, and I will be giving you a few fun exercises to try out over the following pages. Balance is needed in every aspect of daily life and a close connection with the element of Air is a very good thing to have due to this fact, so I would suggest constantly connecting to it, instead of just when you feel it is needed. Nevertheless, having the element of Air in your life is also very useful to connect to when:

v You are beginning a new project or are embarking on a new stage or experience in your life.

v You feel there are problems in a relationship (This means your relationship with yourself, a romantic relationship, or your relationship with the world).

v You feel you need a sense of balance.

v You feel you need to allow traits such as acceptance and love into yourself and your life.

v You feel you need a sense of belonging or would like to create a sense of belonging in a certain place.

v You are in a career that requires you to be interactive and have a constant relationship with others.

v You feel you want to ‘open-up’ to new possibilities, as well as the process of allowing new things in and sharing things from within to the outside world.

v You feel you need to be dynamic, versatile and mobile.

v You have a feeling of being trapped or restricted.

Here are a few fun and simple ways in which to invite the amazing element of Air into your life (and keep it!):

BALANCE AND ENERGIZE YOUR HEART CHAKRA

Before the benefits and effects of the element of Air can really start to work in your life, you have to awaken all those traits and qualities within yourself. This, especially with the Air element, makes you more aware and fully receptive to its energies and the benefits of having them present within and around you. This exercise serves to open up your Heart Chakra to let out what needs be and allow in new energies to which you can give new responses. It focuses on the in and out, up and down, through and over movement of Air and its versatility. It also concentrates on the process of giving and receiving that is constantly going on between yourself and the world.

To answer the inevitable question, yes, of course, friend, it is best to do it outside! Although, once again, anywhere is fine, as long as you feel close to the Air. In your garden, your aunt’s garden, the parking lot outside your flat block, the roof of your flat block, the living room, the bedroom, wherever! As long as you open up all the windows and feel close to the Air. Once you have found that spot, stand up straight, relaxed and close your eyes. Breathe in and out slowly, calmly and still your mind. On your in breath, imagine breathing in the purest cleanest Air, shining with a fantastic white light, and on your out breath, imagine all your stresses, thoughts and worries leaving you through your breath. Picture it as a big black cloud floating out of your body and away from you, up into the atmosphere, to where it can no longer harm. Do this for as long as you feel the need to and until you feel completely still and centred. Try to slowly increase the length of each breath comfortably as you continue.

Now, on your in breath, envision a shining ray of brilliant green light travelling down from the atmosphere above you, coming down towards you. The green light enters your body through the top of your head and stops in the middle of your chest, in the form of a glowing green ball. Feel your Heart Chakra open up. Then, let feelings of love, harmony and acceptance enter your body. Feel those feelings travel from your Heart Chakra downwards in the form of a stream of brilliant pink light, through your legs and through your feet, down into the Earth.

You may do this as many times as you’d like to maximize the effect or increase your own awareness and sensitivity to it. Then, open your eyes. I mean, how do you feel after just reading it? Amazing, isn’t it? This exercise is one of the best when it comes to dealing with the element of Air and its many qualities, as it incorporates the in and out, up and downward movements, as well as the activity in the Heart Chakra and the traits it governs. Not to mention, it is a perfect grounding exercise too! This grounds you to Earth and the world with love and acceptance, which is different to grounding yourself through your Base Chakra using qualities such as instinct and survival.

Here is another great visualisation and channelling exercise that works just as well. You can try them out and see which you feel you benefit from the most and are able to feel closer to the qualities of Air within and around you. Have fun and explore!

Once again, find a place where you are comfortable and feel close to the energy of the Air element. Windows and doors open, or better yet, outside in the fresh or not-so-fresh open air. Now, let your mind still and clear it of excess thoughts. Kneel down on the ground on both knees and lower yourself to sit on your feet. Place your hands on your lap, palms facing upward. Do the same breathing exercise as before, slowly and calmly breathing in the energies and traits of the Air element and breathing out all the mental noise and stresses.

Now, keep your arms relaxed and your hands open. (Remember what I said about the hand sensitive to dispersing energy and the hand sensitive to receiving energy? It comes into play here.) On your in breath, imagine all the input from the outside world and what it gives to you entering your left hand. Imagine that running gracefully all the way up your left arm and through your Heart Chakra.

Now, on your out breath, imagine all that you give to the world as a big ball of energy coming from your Heart Chakra, flowing down your right arm, and out your right hand. Do this a few times over, as if the energies are running in a loop in and out, in and out, up your left hand side, through and out your right hand side. Feel your breathing and the expansion and contraction of your diaphragm. It’s a circle, you see. It brings to light the constant exchange of feelings you have with the world and that which the world has with you and gives to you. The important thing in this exercise, is to feel all of this with love and acceptance. This giving and receiving notion should be kept in your mind and your mind’s eye during the exercise. Now, open your eyes.

You should feel at peace and at ease with your ongoing and never-ending relationship with the world and with yourself. This exercise serves also to create that balance (temporarily, until it’s done every day or more) of giving and receiving energy within and without your body. I almost feel at peace just by explaining the exercise to you already! But, like I said, play around with different visual techniques and tools, this is only a basic outline.

GET A(i)RTSY FARTSY!

Now, we get to the fun part! (Not that that wasn’t fun, but everyone loves decorating, right?) This is the part where you incorporate the fresh element of Air into your everyday life by decorating appropriate places in your living space and home to remind you of your bond to this element, its qualities and allow its effects to take place in your life, positively.

Right, I’ve listed some of the items that are linked to the energy of the Air element on page 160. It is now your job to decide what you like best and feel would remind you of the Air element, when placed in your home. Feathers, leaves, wind chimes, dream catchers, the works! I find, personally, that Seagull feathers are the best looking ones – they’re big and look natural. If you don’t live near the sea, you can find all sorts of beautifully coloured feathers at an arts and crafts shop in your home town.

Once you’ve found them and have them in your possession, play with one or two feathers in your hands. Hold them and whisk them about in the Air slowly. Think about the qualities of Air – versatility, balance, equilibrium, freedom, fresh beginnings and exchange. Feel these traits and qualities and feel your chosen ‘Air items’ radiating them. Whatever your chosen items, find little places within your home to put them. You can place them all over, even the ceiling! But, remember to put one of the items in the side of your home that is facing East. It is the corresponding direction of Air and represents the fresh Sunrise, a new day with new beginnings.

Once the items are all placed, you now have these areas available to you to connect to the Air element. Whenever you feel you need it’s qualities and traits, stand in these areas and play with your chosen feathers or chimes and acknowledge and feel them. Do the exercises on page 165 and feel free to tailor them to what you feel more comfortable with. The element of Air, in all its grace, is now in your own home, for you to harness whenever you feel the need.

There are literally thousands of ways to invite the element of Air into your life, and these are just a few basic examples. Remember, though, to not only harness its energies when you feel the need or are in urgency. We all need a constant balance and equilibrium, which is one of the things this amazing element governs. Use it, feel it, thank the Air, and go placidly.

v Represents stability, groundedness, growth, and the ability to manifest.

v Chakra – Base

Earth represents the solid state of matter and is considered a stable substance. As you have seen in the Base Chakra, the parts of the body such as bones, teeth, circulation and tissue are manifestations of the Earth. It manifests stability, permanence and rigidity. Without it, we would be all over the place and lacking a mental, emotional and physical state of groundedness. Earth is a constant and that is why we acknowledge and make use of it because, it doesn’t change much, and we are always naturally resistant against change (welcome to the human condition!) Most living beings are dependent on Earth for a place to live, for shelter and for a chance to grow food for sustenance. Earth is the first thing you need for almost everything to ensure consistency as it provides certainty, solidity, ground, stability, practicality and endurance.

Earth is a reliable element, peaceful and abundant. It is an element that embodies the day to day life and problems. This is why matters of a practical nature require you to be stable, durable and grounded to gain a practical perspective on situations. Earth is the most passive and strong element, although – much like the foundation of our bodies – it can be destructive if when its wrath is felt. It is commonly seen and described as the solid force within us upon which we build ourselves, and much like the physical Earth, the unavoidable force within us which we can turn into great disaster and disease. Of course, the Earth as mentioned above, is on the more metaphysical side of things, considering its connections to the mental and emotional parts of ourselves. By scientific chemical and atomic analysis, Earth is made up of almost one hundred atomic elements. Mystically, the classification of earth is an “element” of Life, and so it should rightfully be for both you and I, friend.

PHYSICAL APPEARANCE

Earth is generally the element which we are most acquainted with, because it’s in our face every day when we see trees, ground and rocks. I am thankful that we acknowledge its presence well, but there is a lot more to it than what you think. Just as water is the mother and governor of all things liquid, Earth is the father of everything solid. It is more than the ground we walk around on, the sand and soil we call Earth, it is stone as well in all its vast varities. Its minerals make up the most intricate compounds that form these rocks and stones over thousands of years. This includes gemstones and crystals – all the pretty, shiny things!

As Earth is manifested in trees, it also takes on the form of whatever object we shape from it (tables, chairs and tools) throungh carving. Although we intend it to serve us as a tool and we bestow upon it the purpose we want it to serve, it is still Earth in its realization. Earth is much more defined mostly by its appearance, than say Air or any other element would be. It is a solid and permenent substance, not only to the physical eye, but also in its traits in rock, wood and the like. It is an inarguably strong force which has the power to protect, sheild and act as a concrete foundation. This is seen in mountain ranges and cliffs. Similarly, it can also devastate, destruct and still be strong enough to completely rebuild itself, like we see in earthquakes and ice age.

The physical matter which the Element of Earth governs are as follows – Earth is:

v All of the natural neutral-looking colours which you would find in soil and earth.

Now that the physical matter of the element of Earth has been listed and is now acknowledged, we can go on to look at how this matter corresponds with our bodies mentally, emotionally and physically.

Earth is the element upon which we build our existence. It is our foundation and the foundation for all other living beings. It gives us a sense of home, stability, certainty and structure. These traits apply to our entire being – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. How do you feel when walking through a lush green forest? You feel grounded, centred and rooted. You feel stable and part of the Earth. How do you feel when you garden? In my opinion, I feel peaceful and practical. These are the traits that the element of Earth gives us when we harness its energy. Just as we use the Earth to grow crops to feed and sustain us, so it also stands for growth and harvest.

Spirital Earth is very much like physical Earth to us. It is the base on which people build their persona, which keeps your mind focused, practical and determined. It is commonly proven in people that have difficulty with practical situations and initiating a foundation in situations, that they lack a certain amount of the Earth element within themselves. They usually lack strength, will and endurance, all virtues, which are needed to give other elements their ground. This, in turn, means that if you are not connected to the Earth element as much as is required, you are unable to provide a stable and solid foundation for all the rest of you. Plants cannot grow in unfertile soil, can they? This is why having the required amount of each element as you specifically should, is of utmost importance. And Earth is your base.

Many of our forefathers and ancestors from various cultures, belief systems, tribes and religions lived very closely with the Earth element, as well as all four elements. They would plant, sow and harvest their crops according to the ebb and flow of the natural Earth that worked below their very feet. They recorded the changes in the Earth as the (now) four seasons came and went year after year. They also believed firmly that, we all came from one thing and are all a part of the Earth and the world as one universe. Due to this unwavering belief, upon their passing and death, they would traditionally be cremated because, they believed once the body is dead, it should be disassembled by burning and can then return to the Earth, while the immortal soul lives on in the air after the ashes had been scattered.

They also used Earth (in all its shapes and sizes) to build homes and tools for themselves. If you ask me, they had the right way of going about things. If we look at today’s society, I’m sure we can see glimpses of the use of the element of Earth in these ways – in buildings, tools and furniture. The only difference is, we do not recognize and give thanks to the Earth, we praise ourselves for our intelligence. We are able to receive so much more from the Earth, if we acknowledge our connection with it, and we have only seen a glimpse of the blessings it is capable of giving us. A resource and energy that is so powerful and which we are so dependent on – physically and emotionally – should be recognized, made proper use of and thanked.

This disconnection we have made for ourselves is in need of a lot of duct tape and glue, but once we begin using this element’s energy, harnessing it with the correct intentions, it can be pieced together and each of us can once more receive all the blessings the Earth is ready to bestow upon us with our help. It is really so much fun and very easy to bring more of the Earth element into your life and gain a solid connection to it within yourself and your everyday life to benefit from it constantly. Firstly, I’ll explain a few basic things you can do to bring it into your life and establish the Earth element’s nature in your daily routine. They are fun to do and don’t take up much time at all. I will then later get into how you can make use of various herbs and plants to weave little miracles in your life!

You should always be closely connected and aware of it, but specifically, you can use the Earth element’s energy when:

v there is a lack of energy and over-tiredness

v when harvest is needed (any kind, not just actual crop harvest!)

v an inability to make your dreams a reality

v a feeling of fear, anxiety or insecurity

v you feel you need a practical frame of mind

v you feel you need to connect with your instinctive nature

v there is a need for growth

v there is a need for fertility

v you feel you need a sense of ‘grounding’ and need to get ‘down-to-earth’.

Earth brings you into the receptive, calming and loving embrace of Mother Earth. When integrating the Earth element into your life, you will have a feeling of belonging, abundance and groundedness. Here are a few simple ways in which to do this:

BALANCE AND ENERGIZE YOUR BASE CHAKRA

Before any redecorating and ‘reprogramming’ can take place, your own energies must be well acquainted and connected to the Earth element so that you are familiar with the feeling and can then do so more easily and with less effort each time. This also means that you will be able to harness and utilize its energies more effectively and efficiently the more you practice it. Whether you stay in an apartment, a shack or a mansion, find some ground outside somewhere and only pick your spot if you are comfortable standing there for a few minutes. Outside is the most preferred method in which to do this, but if it is not possible at all, then inside will do fine as well.

Find a place in your home where you feel you would be able to ‘connect’ to the Earth beneath your feet. A wooden floor would also be a good idea. (You may need a compass or map for this one) Find the side of your home that is facing north, as north is the corresponding direction of the Earth element. Once you’ve found it, stand facing that direction and close your eyes. Still your mind and breathe slowly and calmly. On your in breath, imagine breathing in the calmness and serenity of a lush forest and feel it flow through your mind and body. On your out breath, see grey smoke coming out of you and leaving you. This grey smoke contains all the stresses and worries you have within you. It contains negative thoughts and unnecessary mental activity that is harmful. Imagine that grey smoke leaving you and your body as you breathe out. See it rise up into the atmosphere, far away from you, and disappear completely where it can no longer harm. Do this breathing a few times over, until you feel completely relaxed, content and still. When you feel the time is right – and trust me, you’ll know! – , keep your eyes closed and let the thoughts of what the Earth element stands for flow through your mind… stability, fertility, growth, structure, instinct, practicality, foundation, strength, endurance and any other of its traits that you feel you want to connect to.

Now, as you breathe in, imagine a chord attached to your Base Chakra (at the bottom of your spine) running down. Follow the chord down and see it go through your feet, the floor, the soil, the crust of the Earth until it reaches the very centre of the Earth’s core. When it gets there, attach your chord to the core like a link or a plug into wall. Feel your connection with its energies and those of Mother Earth. Take a moment. Then follow your chord all the way back up to your feet, then to your Base Chakra, and open your eyes. Now you should feel grounded and at one with Earth. Amazing, isn’t it? Do this whenever you feel off centre or too ‘high up in the clouds’.

GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY!

Yes, friend, this may get messy, but my goodness is it worth it! If you have a garden, great. If not, well then you are just going to have to get more than you may think you need. Go out and get some soil (not the stuff you get at the garden shop that has been tampered with, the real kind!) out of the ground. Whether it is your own garden or your friend’s, your mother’s or a patch of soil from next to the pavement, it doesn’t matter, as long as it’s real soil. Take a few handfuls. When you are back in the comfort of your home, take some time to play with the soil and feel it. Get in there! Close your eyes and feel the its traits of stability, fertility, harvest, permanence and nurturing qualities. Connect to this. Before the next step, it would be a good idea to sift through is with your hands and take out any ants, bugs or creepy crawlies, as you don’t want the little guys to explore and contaminate your home. Then, find a nice bowl or container which can be left open to keep it in. Transfer the soil into said bowl and walk around your home to find a fitting place for it to be. I wouldn’t recommend the bedroom, as its traits aren’t of huge importance in that area, but I would recommend a study, or workplace. Even a mantelpiece would work wonderfully, to carry those Earthy traits all through the home. Once you’ve found the perfect place, arrange it where you can see it constantly in your daily movements through your home. Stand in front of it, close your eyes and ask the soil to provide you with its many wonderful traits. This energy will now always be in your home. From time to time, go back to it and play with it or stand in front of it, pondering on all the Earth element stands for when you feel the need. Breathe its qualities in. You’ll be amazed at how you feel when you practice this accordingly. Remember to replace it every few weeks to make sure it stays fresh, fertile and to reinforce its energies.

∞

There are many items and symbols that represent the Earth element’s energy, and that can be used to manifest things into your life. This is the same for each element, they all have symbols and items that allow you to do this, but because Earth represents growth and manifestation, its corresponding items of symbolism are very powerful manifestation tools. Some of these items are as follows:

v Herbs – each herb has a certain energy that corresponds with a colour and specifically, a Chakra. Herbs are used for many purposes, and because they have such extensive purposes, they can relate to different elements. Although, because they are plants and grow from the actual Earth, their qualities and purposes are more easily manifested through the Earth’s traits of a good foundation, growth and permanence. You will learn more about the extensive properties of herbs a little later on.

v Seeds – seeds are the epitome of fertility, growth and harvest. This is what they symbolize. They can be used in many different ways. In most cases, I would suggest also putting seeds in a bowl (with no soil!) and placing it near the bowl of soil, or better yet, on a window sill, where it can gain sunlight for ‘growth’. For example, if you are in need of the Earth’s energy to make finances grow and reap a bountiful harvest, place coins in the seeds and keep your intent pure. Connect to the Earth when doing this, and ‘watch’ the seeds and coins grow.

There are a million ways to invite and harness the energy of the Earth element into your life, these are only a few. When you find your own preferred method of connecting to this giving, nurturing energy of abundance, it becomes easier to work with as you go along. Get those hands and feet firmly planted and get some dirt on those shoes once in a while! When you are in need of it, you will know and it will all be there for you to use, all you need to do is invite it inside, friend.

and receives the power of the superiors and of the inferiors. So thou hast the glory of the whole world–

therefore let all obscurity flee from thee.

This is the strong force of all forces,

overcoming every subtle and penetrating every solid thing. So the world was created.” – Hermes

At the thought of the elements, most people would start thinking about rivers, storms, tornados, deserts and so on. We generally separate ourselves from the elements, with the unconscious perception that the elements are their own, or even against us. This is so far from the truth, and in thinking this way, we have actually created this separation unintentionally. This has proven to be one of the greatest downfalls of humanity. The key now, is to change our perception of our relationship with the elements.

I am aware that I have been calling you ‘friend’ throughout the book so far, and whether you agree, don’t really mind, like or dislike it, I do believe we are friends. In my personal opinion, sister or brother would serve best, as that is really closer to the truth. Generally if you know, like and spend time with someone, you would refer to them as a friend. Although, as we all come from one thing, Planet Earth, and live under the same sky, in the same place- the Universe, we are literally sisters and brothers. When looking at the bigger scheme of things, it only makes sense. Having said that in a somewhat long (and productive) breath, I can steer you toward my point here. We have now established that we all descend from planet Earth in some way (depending on your religious beliefs) and live upon it. After reading the previous chapter, you are aware of what you are and how you function as one being – absolutely wonderfully. This now begs the question, “What about what is outside of us?”.

” We are all cells in the same body of humanity.” – Peace Pilgrim

Approximately nine months after your conception, you came into the world, kicking, screaming, bloody and eager to start your new life. You didn’t ask to be here, but here you are anyway. What gets to most people is the fact that they didn’t ask to be here, this leads to them feeling like the world owes them something, that there is no help, that they are solitary and that life doesn’t go much further than their own ‘daily grind’. Well… what we have here, folks, is the most destructive, unproductive and self-sabotaging mind set one could come across. The worst thing is that, it is so common today but, I do have good news for the owners of these lonely perceptions. The Earth we were born into and reside on, is here to nourish you. To be under the impression that you have just been left here to fend for yourself, without love, care and nourishment, is indeed the farthest thing from the truth. The Earth is here to take care of you and all you could ever need is readily available for you to use at your disposal. We are meant to make use of what is here (sparingly, of course). When you work with the Earth, you are in abundance. You will never suffer or be left wanting. You may mark my words, friend.

In this chapter, ‘the elements’, I’ll be taking you on a stroll through the workings of the natural elements, their functions and how they work in unison with your body. They serve to be present and made full use of in your life. Just as you have energies within you, they do too, and these energies can be harnessed (in the correct manner) to weave miracles in your life. As when we were born, we were intended to live as one with the natural world. This insight will hopefully give you the knowledge you require to live a life of flow and abundance. Between pages, go for a swim, enjoy the sunshine, have a long walk amongst some lush greens, let the wind play with your hair and remember that you already know all of this, you just need to unlock some of those rigid little doors we all have. Let the elements into your life.

∞

THE FOUR ELEMENTS OF ANTIQUITY

The four major elements – Earth, Air, Fire and Water – are proved to have dominated natural philosophies for two thousand years or so. From the early days of man’s existence, he knew that all matter was formed from these four elements, ultimately. The first set theory stating this, was developed by the Greek philosopher, Empepedocles, of Sicily. This theory – or more belief – did not seize to be practiced until the rise and popularity of modern science. As other theories, belief systems, laws and questions came into play, we began to look for a more complicated answer to all matter in existence. It couldn’t have been as easy as one, two, three, four, could it? Well, yes! Of course it could, but not for us – we won’t settle for simplicity. We love to make things more complicated than they really are.

Although modern science has given us many blessings in breakthroughs and assisted us in countless ways, we have, nonetheless, lost our connection with the natural elements and forgotten how to accept the simplicity that lies in all matter and the unavoidable influence they have on our lives. Even today, Earth, Air, Fire and Water are still very accurate symbols for the four states of all matter – solid, liquid, gas, and plasma. Modern science has no doubt discovered new ideas, but in the field of Mysticism and holistic living, these elements are still of grave importance to illustrate and keep oneself rooted in the knowledge of the oneness of all things. There are ancient symbols linked to each element and they are still used widely today in many belief systems around the globe. Some mystics and yogis insist that the symbols of the four elements be placed on the temple and various alters in their home. It is not uncommon to see Earth(sand), a bowl or glass of water, candles(Fire) and feathers(Air) placed together in one location in a someone’s home, to commemorate, honour and be reminded to keep the awareness of the natural elements and all beings as coming from one origin.

There will be exercises explaining to you exactly how to invite and incorporate the natural elements into your life and how to harness their energies for certain purposes. These exercises are meant for you to explore and try out for yourself and see what works comfortably for you. I must tell you though, at the end of each element, there will be a summary of that specific one. Among the bullet summary, there is the specific time of day which the element’s energies correspond with. It is suggested that you do the exercises and techniques at these times with each different element but, it is of no urgency at all. There are also the corresponding incenses and it would be lovely if, when inviting a certain element into your life, this incense is used, but again, availability and ability sometimes don’t cooperate. So, if you aren’t able, don’t stress the tiniest bit. It’s only there to give you the knowledge and awareness but, it will not change the impact or intensity of the exercises.

Remember, to be completely at balance, one needs the energies of all four elements within and around you – not just one of the four every now and then. Having a constant reminder of the influence of the four elements in our lives is vital to our mental and physical well-being. No matter what your religion, one thing is true in all of them – we are all part of one Earth. This is the truest, most magickal thought that can alter any mood and bring you peace of mind. So get a handful of some soil, a bowl of water, a feather and a pretty candle and put it someplace special to remind you of the amazing interconnectedness of which you and I are a part of. Let’s explore this, shall we?

Before we continue on to learn in the next posts how to invite and incorporate the natural elements into your life and your physical body, in order to live in harmony with them, maintain a healthy balance and weave all kinds of miracles for yourself and those around you, you must, of course, gain a good understanding on how to firstly harness, channel and connect to these certain natural qualities and energies which you’d like to acquire. This process is most commonly called channelling. Now, it’s got nothing to do with remote controls or televisions and although the word alone may seem intimidating at thought of actually doing it, I swear to you, friend, channelling is exhilarating, fun, easy and rewarding. Not to mention super dynamic and versatile when it comes to where, when and what one can use it for.

As we very well know (due to my continuous rambling and emphasis on it), everything has an energy or certain vibration. Everything. Even inanimate objects can be charged with a specific energy! Energy can be transferred from one person to another, or channelled from the outside through one person to be transferred to another. You can even charge your dining room or kitchen with any desired energy for that big dinner party you’re throwing! And yes, this also applies for that rowdy energy that is desired in the bedroom on a special occasion or those romantic nights.

Channelling can be done with or without tools. I mix and match to what suits my situation and I suggest you do too, to try out what you like best and what works comfortably for you. These ‘tools’ could be anything – from a stick or branch to a long rock or crystal. The point is for it to be relatively long and something you are able to hold in your hand. The tools, however, are the least important thing and channelling works just as well with or without them. I seldom use tools and find that most people prefer using only the visualisation techniques.

Channelling works with energy only, and that makes nothing less than perfect sense, as everything IS only energy. Be it a thought, a thing, actual moving energy or a living person. Like I said, tools are an option but, are not compulsory. The majority of techniques are well supported and almost intensified by using only your hands to make gestures and direct the energy whilst visualising it. Now, everyone has what we call an energy dominant hand. This is the hand that is more sensitive to energy and a lot of the time you will be able to physically feel sensations of certain energy passing through this hand as you go along using different techniques. Here is a quick exercise to find out which of your hands is your energy dominant hand:

v Place your hands in front of you, “facing” each other palm to palm. As if to pray.

v Then, without a second thought, let all your fingers interlock with one another.

v Look at your hands and see which thumb is on the outside. The hand of which thumb is on the outside “holding down” the other thumb is your energy dominant hand.

It is suggested that in channelling exercises, using your energy dominant hand is more effective. Although, I prefer using both simultaneously. Do remember that your energy dominant hand isn’t always necessarily your physically dominant hand. For instance, if you are right-handed it may not be your right hand, and vice versa. One fact, though, defies either of these facts. We all have energy going in and out of our bodies continuously, every minute of the day or night. Your left hand is always the receiving hand which takes in energy and is more receptive. Your right hand will always be the giver and will be dispersing more energy outward than receiving it. This is why most people still greet one another and shake hands using their right hand, so that they “give” of their own personal energy as if to say, “Hello! This is me! This is what I am made of.”. So, next time you shake hands you may use the common right hand, or you could become comfortable with the knowledge of your energy dominant hand and use that one to be more sensitive to the other person’s energies and get a “feel” for them.

Channelling is a blend of intent, visualisation and directing. Visualising the energy, feeling the energy and its contents and mentally directing it from one place to another. There are many various visualisation exercises out there to use, but I find that sometimes they are too generalising. Making up your own visualisation techniques in your mind’s eye with your own knowledge of what you are trying to achieve, can be way more fun and is just that much more unique and personal.

In the following chapter I have included some channelling exercises to assist you in inviting the energies of the natural elements into your life and I hope you will play around with the techniques to mix and match and create your own as soon as you are comfortable with the idea.

Just as a taster, let me give you an example of an exercise:

If you feel you need the qualities of joy, contentment, confidence and personal power, or a more masculine energy, it would be an energy corresponding with the Solar Plexus Chakra. At first thought, a place to channel such energy from would be the Sun, so let’s go with that.

Once you have found an appropriate and quiet place, stand straight and relax. You may even want to light a candle for the reminder of the energy of the sun and it’s fiery core. Still your mind and breathe slowly and calmly. On your in breath, imagine breathing in calmness and serenity and feel it flow through your mind and body. On your out breath, see grey smoke coming out of you and leaving you. This grey smoke contains all the stresses and worries you have within you. It contains negative thoughts and unnecessary mental activity that is harmful. Imagine that grey smoke leaving you and your body as you breathe out. See it rise up into the atmosphere, far away from you, and disappear completely where it can no longer harm. Do this breathing a few times over, until you feel completely relaxed, content and still.

Now, imagine the Sun. See it in your mind and think of those qualities of joy, contentment and confidence shining bright within it. Now, see a band of brilliant yellow light(energy) carrying all those qualities within it, coming down from the Sun towards you. Feel it gently enter through the top of your head and make its way down to the area of your Solar Plexus (just below your ribcage, around your upper abdomen) and stop there. You see and feel this shining bright ball of energy there within you holding all these qualities. Picture the ball growing smaller as you feel the energy seeping into your own body until you can’t see it anymore. You can do an exercise like this as many times in a row as you see fit. When you feel the time is right, open your eyes, thank the Sun and ground yourself with a Base Chakra exercise to balance out your energies.

It is extremely important to ground yourself after a channelling exercise to prevent you from being too ‘up in the clouds’ or too grounded. Too much of either one is bad, as it creates instant imbalances.

Channelling from one person to another or channelling from, for instance the Sun, through yourself to another person or thing works in exactly the same way, and that’s when things get fun for you to play around with some of your own techniques to find out what you feel works best.

We’ll begin with inviting the elements one by one into your life over the next few weeks.

I have decided to share something that I, myself, experienced one day during my holiday over the festive season (On that note, I must apologize for my absence and not updating this blog as frequently – but be warned, I am back in the fullest of force in all love and light!).

I have always suggested performing a karmic release to many of my clients, and have excitedly done so for them. I have been blessed enough to see them reap the benefits in front of my own eyes and see the drastic and positive changes in their lives due this release. Although, for some reason, the thought never occurred to me to do a karmic release on myself. (Blinded by the light!)

Definition of ‘karma’

1. (noun)karma
(Hinduism and Buddhism) the effects of a person’s actions that determine his destiny in his next incarnation.
– Princeton’s WordNet

1. karma
the unbroken sequence, according to the Theosophists, of cause and effect, in which every effect is regarded the cause of the next.

-The Nuttall Encyclopedia

Now, we all understand karma in our own way and refer to it when we ‘misplace’ and eventually lose that 20 rand note somewhere and we remember that we ignored the bum on the street the other day and didn’t help him with a coin or two … more than once. This is a basic example and is almost wrong but, for now, it’s all we need to work with. Karma is most definitely not only accumilated and returned in this physical life, but in many before and many after. Whether you believe in past lives or not, my dearest friend, it is nothing less than true. The soul is old. Your soul is (probably) old. Older than your “Earth number” years that you’ve been alive with this certain identity.

“The soul is born old but grows young. That is the comedy of life. And the body is born young and grows old. That is life’s tragedy.” – Oscar Wilde

Have you ever had something happen to you (good or bad) that has made you ask yourself, “Why did this happen? I’ve done nothing to deserve this. Why?” and so on and so forth? I’m certain you have. Well, it may have been the effect (in the cycle of cause and effect) of karma accumulated in this life, or more likely a previous one. This is why we can’t see the reason for a situation happening to us, since past life recall isn’t exactly something we go out of our way to practice every day.

When a karmic release is done, you become free of the chains you have created for yourself in the past (this life or the previous) and truly become the author of your own destiny and be able to control what happens to you. Obviously we all have thousands of little karmic circles, be it the bum on the road that “made” us lose our 20 rand, or breaking a leg, because in some previous life were a carriage driver in the 1800s and hit a man in the road and broke his leg. Karma doesn’t judge. It is a universal law. Cause and effect. Whether it is a big cause, or tiny (insignificant seeming) one, it will have an equal effect. Once you release yourself from that which binds you to these causes and effects, you become free and are able to really live, without the effects popping up to mess your plans or your goals. Remember that it applies to good and bad karma.

The metaphysics of karma work in a never ending cycle (unless it is released) of cause and effect, cause and effect. Dave hurts Sarah, then Sarah hurts Dave because he hurt her (whether in this life or the next). Dave hurts Sarah in the previous life, then Sarah, for what may be an unknown reason to her, hurts Dave (in another shape, way or form of a man in the same situation). After this, Dave hurts Sarah in the next life, because he knows she has hurt him, or he feels she is about to (intuition comes into play). This vicious cycle does not end until it is broken or released.

There are two ways to break the certain circle of a karmic cause and effect:

1) Dave could decide to be enlightened by the universal karmic law and see that Sarah has hurt him and then, in turn, refuses to hurt her back and become a channel for her and his own karmic cycle in this specific situation. He refuses to carry it on, and then forgives Sarah. This has now broken the cycle of this karmic effect.

2) Sarah could see that Dave is about to hurt her or has hurt her and wonders why. It then occurs to her, that she must have hurt Dave in a previous life and accepts that she deserves it. By accepting that you deserve something, and acknowledging that it exists and refuse to carry on the cycle, you break it and set yourself free.

The key is to genuinely FEEL that you have done something (good or bad) to deserve this effect of the cause and refuse to carry it on, through accepting it and moving forward. The universal law, then breaks.

This is an extremely simple example, but it is nevertheless a perfect one.

Dearest friend, sit down and really look at your past experiences and situations. Things that have happened to you and things that you thought you could not control. These things may hurt when you think about it, but once you accept that it was the effect of good or bad karma and you did cause it, you can then make a conscious decision to discontinue it.

I performed this on myself for about an hour, sifting through all the good and bad bits of my life until now, and my word! Ever since then, I feel I am free of the ropes that bound me to my previous actions and I can truly form my own destiny now, quicker than ever, because these effects don’t pop up once the cycle is broken. It gives you peace once you have also dealt with certain situations that you have been holding onto and serves as a real and full release of even your own emotions towards these things in your past.

Choose to not be bound, choose to understand and accept. Choose knowledge and choose your freedom. Because THAT is what you really deserve, isn’t it?

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Tarot meditation reading – Wednesday – 14/12/2011
Resources – (The Magician)
“Your energy is your basic resource. Your sexuality is a large part of your energy system. If you are in a destructive relationship, pick up your power and leave now. Next, look at everything around you, get rid of things that interfere with your dreams. Acquire what you need. Be aware that what you need is probably already at hand. Take stock of your resources and use them wisely.”
I’m sure I can safely say that everyone has plans, goals, dreams and things they want to acquire – eventually. This is, of course, natural and also very healthy. Without this vision and sight into what we want for our own life, we would be doing things aimlessly and wondering around without direction or reason. The only way is forward, and like my mother always says, “Don’t look into the past, unless you’re planning to go there!”.
The reason for having these aspirations and plans, is for us to acquire what we need along the way to actually get what we want or to where we want to be. These goals exist, because you don’t have what you need – right NOW. If you did, you would’ve gone through with your plans and achieved your goal, naturally. What if I told you that you already have what you need and you could’ve done it AGES ago? Well, yes, I just told you. We are so concerned with HOW we are going to get there and WHAT we need in order to do so, that we forget what we HAVE. Instead of searching outward, look a little bit closer to yourself, your capabilities and your surroundings.
You have planted your seed to begin on your way to your goal. Whether it was 5 weeks ago or 5 years ago, it is still there, you just need to nurture it, water it, and watch it grow. If this isn’t done, well, it just sits there in the soil waiting, doing nothing, while you go out on a wild goose chase to find food, water and sunshine for it! The point I’m trying to make here, friend, is that you MOST DEFINATELY have useful resources of your own, to get you to your goal faster than waiting around for it.
We are often too hard on ourselves and forget our own capabilities and what we already HAVE. Give yourself a hug, kiss and pat on the back. We are all guilty of seeing farther rather than what’s right in front of us. So, look around you, look within you, ponder on what you HAVE and what you can USE. Get rid of everything that is tampering with your dreams and goals, and surround yourself with all you need to feed your aspirations. Once you have had a little thinking done, you will be amazed at how much you have, you will probably kick yourself for not seeing it! Open your eyes and mind, trash what no longer serves you positively, and rediscover your resources and capabilities. It’s all you, and it’s all there waiting for you to use it!
Brightest blessings,
Isabelle Meiring
Holistic therapist and Spiritual counsellor
Port Elizabeth
+27 71 89 39 034
isabelle@theurbangardens.co.zahttp://www.theurbangardens.co.za

The four major elements – Earth, Air, Fire and Water – are proved to have dominated natural philosophies for two thousand years or so. From the early days of man’s existence, he knew that all matter was formed from these four elements, ultimately. The first set theory stating this, was developed by the Greek philosopher, Empepedocles, of Sicily. This theory – or more belief – did not seize to be practiced until the rise and popularity of modern science. As other theories, belief systems, laws and questions came into play, we began to look for a more complicated answer to all matter in existence. It couldn’t have been as easy as one, two, three, four, could it? Well, yes! Of course it could, but not for us – we won’t settle for simplicity. We love to make things more complicated than they really are.

Although modern science has given us many blessings in breakthroughs and assisted us in countless ways, we have, nonetheless, lost our connection with the natural elements and forgotten how to accept the simplicity that lies in all matter and the unavoidable influence they have on our lives. Even today, Earth, Air, Fire and Water are still very accurate symbols for the four states of all matter – solid, liquid, gas, and plasma. Modern science has no doubt discovered new ideas, but in the field of Mysticism and holistic living, these elements are still of grave importance to illustrate and keep oneself rooted with the knowledge of the oneness of all things.

There are ancient symbols linked to each element and they are still used widely today in many belief systems around the globe. Some mystics and yogis insist that the symbols of the four elements be placed on the temple and various alters in their home. It is not uncommon to see Earth(sand), a bowl or glass of water, candles(Fire) and feathers(Air) placed together in one location in a someone’s home, to commemorate, honour and be reminded to keep the awareness of the natural elements and all beings as coming from one origin. I’m sure you’ve heard of the ‘Fifth element’ at some stage in your life. This element is acknowledged by many belief systems and religions. It is commonly labelled as Ether or Spirit. I, personally, prefer Spirit. The role of this fifth element in our lives and in the natural world, will be explained in detail to you in the following chapters. Having a constant reminder of the influence of the four elements in our lives is vital to our mental and physical well-being. No matter what your religion, one thing is true in all of them – we are all part of one Earth. This is the truest, most magickal thought that can alter any mood and bring you peace of mind. So get a handful of some soil, a bowl of water, a feather and a pretty candle and put it someplace special to remind you of the amazing interconnectedness of which you and I are al apart of. Let’s explore this, shall we?

In my coming posts we’ll explore inviting the natural world into your life – for good🙂